Episode 113: In-app measurement with Brian Quinn of AppsFlyer, plus lots of M&A news
Mar 7, 2025
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Brian Quinn, President and GM of AppsFlyer, dives deep into the world of mobile measurement and attribution. He shares insights on the challenges posed by Apple’s App Tracking Transparency and how it reshapes data management. The conversation highlights conflicts of interest in app measurement, especially with recent acquisitions like AppLovin's purchase of Adjust. Quinn also discusses the ripple effects of strategic acquisitions in the digital advertising space and the evolving role of AI in enhancing brand interactions.
AppsFlyer's leadership in mobile attribution highlights the growing need for unified data strategies to optimize app performance amidst evolving privacy regulations.
Recent M&A activity, particularly involving AppLovin, reveals the complexities of transparency and trust in the mobile app ecosystem amid regulatory changes.
Deep dives
The Role of AppsFlyer in Mobile Attribution
AppsFlyer serves as a market leader in mobile attribution, providing a suite of tools designed to help app developers and marketers measure and optimize their app performance. The company boasts a significant presence, with around 65% market share and its SDK being one of the most widely deployed globally. The mobile measurement landscape has transformed, particularly after Apple implemented Apple's App Tracking Transparency (ATT), compelling marketers to navigate increasingly fragmented data flows. AppsFlyer's focus on unifying various data sources and strengthening data science methodologies positions it as a critical partner for businesses seeking growth in this dynamic environment.
Impact of Apple's Ad Attribution Kit
The adoption and impact of Apple's Ad Attribution Kit, previously known as SCAD, have plateaued, with recent figures suggesting usage has decreased to around 25%. While it remains a relevant signal in measuring app installs and growth, its overall significance has diminished as marketers grapple with integrating it alongside other data sources. The introduction of new features, such as viewing attribution data from users who later install apps after searching, adds layers of complexity for marketers trying to streamline their measurement strategies. As a result, many advertisers are looking for simpler, more comprehensive solutions to assess their marketing effectiveness amid this data fragmentation.
The Impact of AppLovin and Market Dynamics
AppLovin's controversial practices and its influence on the mobile app ecosystem have raised eyebrows, especially following its acquisition of a measurement company. Allegations regarding automatic app downloads underscore the complex and often opaque nature of the app marketplace, particularly in how users interact with ads. This encapsulates ongoing discussions about fairness and transparency in mobile advertising, especially since major players like Apple may not subject their own practices to the same scrutiny as others. The landscape continues to evolve as companies seek to balance monetization with user trust and regulatory compliance.
Emerging Challenges in Mobile Marketing and Regulation
The scrutiny surrounding Apple's ATT continues to reverberate across Europe, with investigations in France and Germany questioning potential anti-competitive behaviors. The requirement for explicit user consent has drastically reduced the sharing of device identifiers, which has significant implications for advertising efficacy, particularly for companies like Meta. As the industry monitors developments around potential regulatory changes, advertisers remain concerned about their ability to navigate these evolving rules while still achieving effective customer acquisition and retention. This regulatory environment complicates the strategies brands use to leverage mobile marketing, prompting calls for a more balanced approach to user privacy and market competition.